Single-port non-lipolytic endoscopic surgery via the axillary approach for the treatment of benign breast tumors has better clinical outcomes: a case control study.

Background: Endoscopic surgery provides good cosmetic results while ensuring therapeutic outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and cosmetic outcome of endoscopic surgery for benign breast tumors.

Methods: In total, 108 patients were enrolled and divided into endoscopic or open surgery groups based on the patients' voluntary decisions. Surgical information, complications, postoperative pain, and postoperative cosmetic scores were compared.

Results: The endoscopic surgery group and open surgery group included 46 and 62 patients, respectively. Patients who underwent endoscopic surgery had longer operative times (p < 0.001) and postoperative hospital stays (p = 0.045), and there was no significant difference in intraoperative blood loss between the two groups (p = 0.501). The overall postoperative complication rate was 13% in the endoscopic group and 25.8% in the open group (p = 0.103). Postoperative pain scores were similar in both groups. Cosmetic scores were better in the endoscopic group (p = 0.002), especially regarding nipple shape and wound scarring.

Conclusions: Endoscopic surgery is safe and effective for treating benign breast tumors and offers improved cosmetic results compared to open surgery.